Doctors should not prescribe antibiotics inappropriately, such as treating…

The idea

This statement explains why antibiotics should only be prescribed when they are needed. Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses, so they are ineffective against viral infections such as colds or flu. Prescribing antibiotics for non-serious or viral infections is inappropriate because it exposes bacteria to the antibiotic unnecessarily. This increases the chance that resistant bacteria survive and reproduce, leading to more resistant strains. Doctors should prescribe antibiotics only for serious bacterial infections where they are likely to be effective. Patients should also complete their prescribed course as directed. Reducing inappropriate use helps slow the development of antibiotic resistance and keeps antibiotics effective for the future.

What earns the marks

• Antibiotics are effective against bacteria, not viruses.
• Prescribing antibiotics for viral infections such as colds or flu is inappropriate.
• Non-serious infections may not need antibiotics because the immune system can often clear them.
• Inappropriate use increases selection pressure, allowing resistant bacteria to survive and reproduce.
• Doctors should prescribe antibiotics only when there is a clear bacterial infection and a genuine need.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Thinking antibiotics can treat viral infections.

  Put it right: They cannot kill viruses.

• Believing that stopping a course early is always safe.

  Put it right: Patients should follow medical advice, and incomplete courses can contribute to resistance.

• Assuming that stronger or more antibiotics are always better.

  Put it right: Unnecessary antibiotics increase resistance without benefit.

Exam tips

• State clearly that antibiotics do not work on viruses.
• Explain that inappropriate use increases the chance of resistant bacteria surviving.
• Use examples such as treating a cold with antibiotics to show why it is inappropriate.